When I graduated in 95’, I had a choice: To settle for a comfortable developer job or be part of something new and unpredictable. Guess which one I picked?

I started my post-graduation life in desktop route planning software to help emergency services respond faster and more efficient. The software was the first of its kind in the Netherlands, long before Google Maps. If I had chosen to settle for something safe and less risky, I would not be in the position that I am today.

[Tweet “Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself.”]

Most people would say that it’s easier to take the road of least resistance: Accept an easy job, do it well, and move on to something else.

Here’s the problem with that philosophy: It’s hard to get noticed when you do an easy job well. Don’t be afraid to embrace tough assignments. It’s much better to challenge yourself by volunteering for the toughest projects and solve problems that no one else has been able to solve. I believe that’s how you truly become a trusted leader inside an organization.

The bottom line? Never stop learning.

The strongest leaders are those who are lifelong students. Whether you’re starting out your career in the tech industry or aiming for a c-level position, there’s always more to learn.

I recently spoke to IDG Connect about career advice for the c-suite. Want to know the worst piece of business advice I received? Here’s what I said.